The influence of reproductive Performance by Selenium and Vitamin E injection in Awassi Ewes
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of selenium and vitamin E injections on the reproductive performance and oxidative status of Awassi ewes. Eighteen ewes were divided into three groups (n=6): a High-Dose group (5 ml of commercial preparation), a Standard-Dose group (2.5 ml), and a Control group (normal saline). Injections were administered weekly. After four weeks, a standing laparotomy was performed to assess ovarian structures, and pregnancy was confirmed. Blood samples were collected before treatment and four weeks later to analyze serum selenium, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Results showed a significant, dose-dependent improvement in reproductive outcomes. The High-Dose group exhibited the highest number of follicles (3.50 ± 0.43) and corpora lutea (1.67 ± 0.52), alongside the highest conception (83.3%) and pregnancy (83.3%) rates, all significantly greater than the Control group (p<0.05). Biochemically, both supplemented groups showed a significant increase in GSH-Px and SOD activities and a decrease in MDA concentration at week four, with the High-Dose group demonstrating the most pronounced antioxidant effect (p<0.001). In conclusion, injection supplementation with selenium and vitamin E, particularly at a higher dose, significantly enhanced the antioxidant defense system and improved key reproductive parameters in Awassi ewes. This supports the use of pre-breeding antioxidant supplementation as an effective management strategy to improve fertility in flocks under oxidative stress.
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